7 Gospel Lessons Hidden in 'The Hunger Games'

Set in a dystopian future, the Hunger Games series have captivated millions through its portrayal of how courage, compassion, and selflessness can endure in the face of heartbreaking cruelty. With the new Hunger Games movie in theatres, I felt it would be appropriate to pay tribute to the series through this blog post (You saw what I did there). Here are seven ways that lessons from the Hunger Games apply to LDS youth and single adults.

Surround yourself with the right type of people

“Choose friends who share your values so you can strengthen and encourage each other in living high standards.” – From the Strength of Youth

In the second Hunger Games, Katniss impresses the other tributes with her archery skills, leading half of the tributes to request Katniss as an ally. Although Katniss has a wide selection to choose from, she chooses not to ally with the “cool kids” – the lethal Careers. Instead, Katniss decides to ally herself with people she deems trustworthy. This decision pays off, as throughout the second Hunger Games, her allies make personal sacrifices to protect Katniss and Peeta.

Often, it can be easy to find ourselves attracted to the wrong type of people simply because they seem cool, popular, or charismatic. However, it’s critical for us to choose friends who are loyal and have our best interests at heart. Katniss survived the Hunger Games because she put her trust in the right people. Likewise, we need to be selective in choosing friends who are trustworthy and will support us in making good decisions.